Mixed Deck — All Book & eBook Marketing Topics Flashcards

Which book cover element most strongly influences a potential reader's buying decision according to publishing research?

Answer: Cover image/visual

Research consistently shows that the cover image or visual is the single most influential element in a reader's snap decision to pick up or click on a book.

What is a 'blog tour' in the context of book launch marketing?

Answer: A coordinated series of guest posts, reviews, and interviews published across multiple blogs on a launch timeline

A blog tour coordinates appearances (guest posts, interviews, reviews) across multiple blogs simultaneously during a launch window, expanding reach to new reader audiences.

Which element of a book sales page most directly influences a browser's decision to purchase?

Answer: The book description (blurb)

The blurb is the primary sales copy that hooks potential buyers, communicates the premise, and creates desire to read the book.

If an author opts out of KDP Select, how soon can they publish their eBook on other platforms?

Answer: After the current 90-day period ends

Authors must wait until the current 90-day KDP Select enrollment period ends before they can publish their eBook on competing platforms.

Which pricing strategy involves temporarily setting an eBook to $0.00 to drive downloads and reviews?

Answer: Permafree strategy

A permafree strategy permanently (or semi-permanently) sets an eBook to free, typically the first in a series, to build readership and generate reviews.

On Amazon KDP, what is the minimum price you can set for an eBook to qualify for the 70% royalty tier?

Answer: $2.99

To qualify for the 70% royalty rate on Amazon KDP, your eBook must be priced at a minimum of $2.99.

What is the core purpose of a 'loss leader' pricing strategy for authors?

Answer: Pricing one book very cheaply or free to attract readers who will then buy other books at full price

A loss leader prices one book below profitability (or at zero) to acquire new readers, who then become paying customers for other books in the author's catalog.

What is the significance of the 'thumbnail test' for an eBook cover?

Answer: Checking the cover looks good at small sizes as it appears in online stores

The thumbnail test checks that a cover remains readable and visually compelling at the small sizes used in Amazon and other online store listings.

How does a 'street team' function in book marketing?

Answer: A group of dedicated fans who help spread buzz and post early reviews

A street team is a volunteer group of enthusiastic readers who receive advance content and in return post reviews, share on social media, and generate early buzz.

When creating an author headshot for book marketing purposes, which background style is currently most recommended?

Answer: Heavily blurred natural or contextual background (bokeh)

A naturally blurred (bokeh) background that's contextually relevant to the author's genre is the current industry recommendation for authentic, professional author photos.

How can you increase your book's visibility?

Answer: By promoting it on social media.

Promoting a book on social media is a highly effective way to reach a broad audience and generate interest. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok allow authors to connect directly with potential readers, share updates, host Q&As, and run targeted ad campaigns. This direct engagement significantly increases the book's exposure beyond personal networks.

What is the main purpose of Inbound Marketing?

Answer: To create content that answers customers' most common concerns and questions.

Inbound marketing focuses on attracting customers by creating valuable content and experiences tailored to them. Its main purpose is to draw potential customers in by providing helpful information, answering their questions, and addressing their concerns, rather than overtly pushing a product. This approach builds trust and establishes the author or brand as a knowledgeable resource.

Which pricing strategy involves launching a book at a high price to capture early adopters, then gradually lowering the price over time?

Answer: Price skimming

Price skimming starts high to maximize revenue from early buyers willing to pay a premium, then reduces price over time to attract more price-sensitive readers.

Which of the following is a key advantage of publishing wide (across multiple platforms) vs. going exclusive with Amazon KDP Select?

Answer: Diversified income streams and reduced dependency on one platform

Publishing wide across multiple platforms diversifies an author's income streams and reduces the risk of over-reliance on a single retailer.

Which email service provider is most popular among indie authors for its free tier and automation capabilities?

Answer: MailerLite

MailerLite is widely favored by indie authors for its generous free tier, user-friendly interface, and robust automation features at a lower cost than competitors.

How are print-on-demand (POD) author royalties typically calculated for self-published paperbacks?

Answer: List price minus printing cost, multiplied by a royalty percentage

POD royalties are calculated by subtracting the printing cost from the list price, then applying a royalty percentage (often 60%) to the remainder.

What is a 'BookBub Featured Deal' and why is it coveted by indie authors?

Answer: A highly sought-after discount email promotion sent to millions of targeted book buyers

A BookBub Featured Deal is a paid promotional email sent to BookBub's millions of subscribers who have opted in for specific genres, typically resulting in thousands of book sales for featured titles.

What is a 'permafree' strategy in eBook marketing?

Answer: Setting book 1 of a series to $0.00 to drive series sales

Permafree sets the first book in a series permanently to free, using it as a lead magnet to funnel readers into buying subsequent paid titles.

What is the purpose of a spine width calculation when designing a print book cover?

Answer: To ensure the spine text and design fit the actual printed book thickness

Spine width must be calculated based on page count and paper type so the spine design and text fit precisely on the printed book's side.

What is the key benefit of publishing an eBook in EPUB format versus a proprietary format like MOBI?

Answer: EPUB is an open standard supported across nearly all non-Kindle platforms and devices

EPUB's open standard makes it compatible with Apple Books, Kobo, Nook, and most e-readers, while proprietary formats like MOBI are tied to specific ecosystems.